Can You Get Tattooed While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

—Navigating body autonomy, safety myths, and motherhood's inked edge

Your body’s growing life, can it handle new ink?

Getting a tattoo while pregnant or breastfeeding isn't a beauty decision, it’s a medical one. But is the fear justified, or is it all hearsay?

You're balancing cravings, exhaustion, and a to-do list that includes choosing a car seat, not ink color. And yet, as you pass the mirror, that old plan for a motherhood tattoo whispers back. Can you get tattooed while pregnant? What about while breastfeeding? Google will serve you every horror story imaginable, most unverified. Meanwhile, your autonomy doesn’t feel like your own. Let’s unpack fact from fiction, so you can make empowered choices based on you, not outdated taboos.

Pregnancy, But Make It Sterile

Medical professionals don’t officially ban tattoos during pregnancy, but they don’t exactly greenlight them either. That’s because there’s limited research, not necessarily red flags (American Pregnancy Association, n.d.). The real concern? Infection. If a studio isn’t sterile or if aftercare is neglected, the risk of bloodborne pathogens like hepatitis B or C rises (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], n.d.).

That said, a reputable tattoo shop uses single-use needles, gloves, and hospital-grade disinfectants. And a responsible artist will likely ask you to return post-pregnancy, not to offend, but to protect. No one wants to gamble with the “what-ifs” when there’s more than one life at stake.

The Milk Doesn’t Magically Ink Itself

Breastfeeding brings its own fears; can tattoo ink transfer through breastmilk? The short answer: no. The ink stays in your skin. While small traces of compounds from tattoo ink may enter the bloodstream, they don’t enter breastmilk in clinically significant ways (Verywell Family, 2023).

Still, your body’s healing is different while lactating. Lower sleep, higher hormones, and fluctuating immunity can delay recovery (La Leche League International, 2023). Plus, there's always a small risk of infection or needing antibiotics that aren’t breastfeeding-safe. Translation: your decision is about recovery readiness.

Can You Trust Your Artist—And Your Timing?

If you’re determined to get tattooed while breastfeeding or pregnant, timing is everything. In the first trimester, most artists will (and should) decline; it’s when fetal development is most sensitive. The third trimester? Awkward positioning, swelling, and circulation concerns can make sessions harder.

Breastfeeding? Best to wait at least 6 weeks postpartum so your body stabilizes, your sleep is semi-reliable (or at least predictably chaotic), and you can monitor for healing issues. Ultimately, it’s not “can you get tattooed”- it’s should you get tattooed right now?

If you're in your third trimester and thinking of getting tattooed, you’re already lying on your side to sleep, you don’t need to lie in a tattoo chair too.

Regret Is Temporary—But Infection Is Forever

Yes, that motherhood tattoo idea might feel urgent. Maybe it’s the birth flower of your firstborn. Maybe it’s closure from loss. But tattoos last forever. Healing complications, however, can last longer than you'd think if your immune system isn’t at full power.

It’s okay to wait. It’s also okay to get the tattoo if you’re healthy, your artist agrees, and you’ve triple-checked the hygiene practices. Don’t rush the ritual. Remember:

Better to wait in wholeness than ink in haste.

Tattoo while pregnant is a timing issue.

Your body is already a masterpiece, it’s building life or sustaining it. Tattoos can honor that, but they aren’t required to prove it. There’s no expiration date on commemorating motherhood. And here’s the twist: when you prioritize safety and timing, the tattoo often becomes more meaningful, because it’s not reactive, it’s intentional.

We protect what we create, not by avoiding risk, but by respecting readiness.
And sometimes, the most empowering “yes” is a thoughtful “not yet.”

So, can you get tattooed while pregnant or breastfeeding? Technically, yes, sometimes. Medically, caution is wise. Emotionally, only you know what’s best. But know this: choosing to wait doesn’t make you less bold. It makes you brave in a different way.

Have you gotten a tattoo while nursing or pregnant? What did you consider before making your decision?
💬 We’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment below to share your thoughts, questions, or experience.
📲 Know someone who’s considering a tattoo during this time? Send this their way.

Sources

• American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Tattoos during pregnancy. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/is-it-safe/tattoos

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Hepatitis C – Prevention. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-c/prevention

• Verywell Family. (2023). Can you get a tattoo while pregnant? Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-you-get-a-tattoo-while-pregnant-7505740

• La Leche League International. (2023). Postpartum recovery and breastfeeding. Retrieved August 12, 2025, from https://llli.org/breastfeeding-info/tattoos-and-breastfeeding/

• Høgsberg, T. et al. (2013). Black tattoo inks induce reactive oxygen species and DNA damage in human cells. Experimental Dermatology, 22(5), 386–391. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23800057

Cybersigilism to Color Comebacks: 9 Tattoo Styles Owning 2025

The boldest ink of the year blends tech-age mysticism, vibrant nostalgia, and collector chaos

What happens when ancient symbols, neon nostalgia, and digital dreams collide?
In 2025, tattoo culture is evolving.
If your ink still whispers “2019,” it might be time for a louder statement.

Miss these trends and you risk rocking outdated art while everyone else flexes futuristic flesh.
You don’t wear the trend to fit in, you wear the trend that fits you.

Cyber-sigil Magic: Where Tech Meets Tarot

-Cybersigilism Tattoo by Damon Hottes

Forget basic runes. These digital-age mystics are tattooing their bodies like firewalls; ancient codes protecting modern souls.
Heavily inspired by online aesthetics and futuristic subcultures, cyber sigilism thrives in black ink, negative space, and spiritual tech symbology.

Ink That Bleeds Like Emotion: Watercolor & Painterly Styles

- Watercolor Tattoo by Ben Graham

Watercolor tattoos are no longer a niche, they're evolving into something richer.
Tattoo artists in 2025 are layering brushstroke textures, color washes, and loose composition to mimic fine art on skin.
It’s not just about splashes and gradients anymore. You’ll see Monet-inspired landscapes, abstract expressions, and even brushy surrealism.
It’s paint with permanence, and it’s having a major comeback.

Louder Than Words: Color Ink’s Full-Volume Return

- Color Tattoo by CJ Oliver

Muted tattoos walked so Lisa Frank sleeves could run.
After a grayscale run, 2025 is throwing color back into the ring like it never left.
Artists are flooding sleeves with punchy palettes, mixing neotraditional tropes with manga, sticker sleeves, and streetwear pop.

Soft Horror, Sad Clowns, and Pretty Bleeding Hearts

-Pastel bat tattoo by Lacey Donovan

2025: When your tattoo cries glitter and nobody bats an eye.
The year's dark themes are scary-seductive.
Expect ghosts with glitter tears, pastel skulls, stylized, and dreamlike horror in candy-colored palettes.
It’s catharsis with a hint of sparkle.

Patchwork sleeves: The Collector’s New Uniform

-Patchwork literary sleeve by Christa Wagner

Here’s to a life scrapbook you can’t lose.
Clients are craving visible spontaneity, scattered flash, multi-artist layering, and tattoo maps that grow without symmetry.
The result? A masterpiece that tells a story only the collector could narrate.

Ornamental Blackwork: Lace, Linework, and Sacred Flow

- Geometric Tattoo by Cody Moore

Mandalas, sacred geometry, henna-inspired bands, and bold, symmetrical fillers.
These pieces feel like tattoos wrapped in tradition, but with a graphic designer’s precision.
They work as full-body statements or elegant transitions between existing pieces. Modern armor in ink form.
You’ll see a lot more torso panels, sternum mandalas, and flowing filigree in 2025.

Single Needle Realism: Gentle Ink with Heavy Emotion

- Fineline realism pet portrait by Lew Smith

Soft doesn’t mean simple.
This year’s realism tattoos lean into vulnerability; pets, grandparents, childhood photos, and surreal black-and-grey designs. They’re often single needle, finely shaded, and packed with meaning.
It's not photorealism for show, it’s emotional realism that lingers.

Text Tattoos as Personal Manifesto

- Script tattoo by Emily Tucker

It’s not just lyrics anymore.
More people are tattooing their own handwriting, journal excerpts, or full declarations across their ribs, arms, and thighs.
Fonts range from typewriter-style nostalgia to bold script that screams “read this twice.”

Storybook Skin: Illustrative Tattoos With Character

- Illustrative book tattoo by Coyote Grace Hasner

From graphic novels, manga, and art prints, literary themes are being brought to life on skin.
Illustrative tattoos combine delicate outlines with stylized shading, often pulling from pop culture, mythology, or fantasy.
In 2025, artists are blending neotraditional structure with sketchy linework and soft fills.
This style is perfect for clients who want their tattoos to feel like a page from their favorite story.

A Body of Work, Not Just a Tattoo

Trends used to define you. In 2025, you define the trend.
Artists and collectors are co-creating styles that shapeshift by the month; built less on tradition and more on connection.

Thinking About Your Next Tattoo?

Tattooing in 2025 is part archive, part vision board.
It’s where softness meets edge, where chaos becomes design, and where your weirdest ideas are suddenly in high demand.

These trends offer a glimpse at something deeper: Ink as identity. Ink as memory. Ink as ritual.

You don’t tattoo the moment to remember it, you remember the moment by tattooing it.

Tell Us Your Take:

• Which of these 2025 trends speaks to you most?

• Got patchwork ink already? Drop a pic in the comments.

• Do you think color is really back, or are you sticking with black and grey?

The Biological Process of Tattoo Healing: Why Tattoos Fade and Blur Over Time

When you get a tattoo, it’s easy to focus on the excitement of the design and the experience. But once the ink settles, it’s important to understand what happens next. Tattoos heal through a natural biological process, and over time, the ink can fade or blur due to a variety of factors.

In this blog, we’ll break down the science behind how tattoos heal, why they fade, and what you can do to keep your tattoo looking fresh and sharp for years to come.

How Tattoos Heal: The Biology Behind It

A tattoo is a permanent piece of art created by injecting ink into the skin using a needle. But how does your body respond to this process? The skin’s response involves several stages, and understanding each one can give you a better idea of why tattoos heal the way they do.

The Skin Layers and Tattooing

To understand tattoo healing, we first need to understand the skin. The skin has three main layers:

• Epidermis (outermost layer)

• Dermis (middle layer)

• Subcutaneous (deepest layer)

Tattoo needles puncture through the epidermis and deposit ink into the dermis, which is where the ink must stay to create a permanent tattoo. This layer is more stable than the outer epidermis, which sheds skin cells frequently, and ensures the tattoo doesn’t wash away over time.

Tattoos that go as deep as the subcutaneous tissue are where you see blowouts happen. This tissue is not structured dense enough to hold the ink, causing the dreaded spread or blur effect.

The Initial Healing Phase (1-2 Weeks)

Once the tattoo is done, your body treats it like a wound. The healing process starts almost immediately:

• Inflammation: Your body sends blood to the tattooed area to begin the healing process, causing redness, swelling, and mild pain. This inflammation can last for the first few days.

• Scabbing: As the skin starts to repair itself, the tattooed area may form a slight scab or just a milky, dull top layer. This protects the ink and helps it settle into the dermis. It's crucial to resist the urge to scratch, pick, or peel the tattoo as this can disrupt the healing process and cause the tattoo to lose ink. Excessive scabbing may be a sign the tattoo is overworked, or having a rough heal. Either way, be sure to protect it.

• Flaking and Peeling: After a few days, the outer skin layer starts to shed, causing your tattoo to flake and peel. The new skin underneath is soft and vulnerable, and proper aftercare is crucial during this phase to protect the tattoo.

The Long-Term Healing Phase (Up to 6 Months)

Even after the initial healing period, your tattoo continues to heal beneath the surface. The deeper skin layers take time to regenerate, and during this time, the ink in the dermis begins to settle. This phase can last several weeks to months, during which you may notice slight fading as the ink adjusts and becomes embedded within the dermis.

Healing Tip: Keep your tattoo moisturized and protected from direct sunlight during the healing period to ensure the best possible results.

Why Tattoos Fade and Blur Over Time

While tattoos are designed to be permanent, several factors contribute to their gradual fading or blurring over time. Let's dive into the reasons behind this process:

Ink Breakdown and Skin Regeneration

The tattoo ink itself doesn’t disappear, but your skin’s natural processes can affect how the tattoo looks over time. The body treats tattoo ink as a foreign substance and begins to break it down. The ink particles are too large for your body’s immune cells to completely remove, but they do cause some degree of breakdown, especially in the epidermis.

The process of skin regeneration plays a large part in fading and blurring. Your skin is constantly producing new cells and shedding old ones, which means that over time, the ink particles can move or degrade. As the dermis regenerates, some of the tattoo pigment can disperse or lose sharpness, leading to a faded or blurry tattoo.

Sun Exposure

One of the primary factors that cause tattoos to fade over time is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. UV radiation breaks down ink particles, leading to quicker fading and loss of vibrancy. Black ink is more resistant to UV damage than lighter colors, but even black tattoos will fade with prolonged sun exposure.

Prevention Tip: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your tattoos from the sun and help them retain their color longer.

Skin Aging and Movement

As you age, your skin loses elasticity and the layers of skin thicken. This natural aging process impacts how tattoos hold up. Tattoos on areas of the body with more movement, such as joints (elbows, knees), may experience more stretching and distortion, which can blur the lines over time. Tattoos on areas with more friction or less blood flow, like the hands or feet, may also fade faster.

Ink Quality and Tattooing Technique

Not all tattoo inks are created equal. Poor-quality ink or subpar tattooing techniques can lead to faster fading or blurring. If an artist doesn’t inject the ink deep enough into the dermis, the tattoo may not last as long. Similarly, fine lines in tattoos are more susceptible to fading because they use less ink and are more likely to blur as the skin heals and regenerates.

Pro Tip: Choose a skilled tattoo artist who uses high-quality ink and knows how to work with different styles and designs to ensure longevity.

How to Prevent Tattoo Fading and Blurring

While some degree of fading and blurring is inevitable over time, there are steps you can take to preserve your tattoo’s clarity and vibrancy for as long as possible:

• Follow Aftercare Instructions: Proper aftercare ensures the tattoo heals well and minimizes scarring. Always follow your tattoo artist’s advice for cleaning, moisturizing, and protecting your tattoo during the healing period.

• Use Sunscreen: Protect your tattoo from UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.

• Stay Hydrated: Healthy, hydrated skin heals better and holds ink more effectively.

• Avoid Scratching or Picking: Never pick or scratch your tattoo as this can cause damage to the design and lead to ink loss.

• Choose the Right Placement: Tattoos on areas that receive less wear and tear tend to hold up better over time.

Understanding Tattoo Fading and Blurring

Tattoos are a beautiful and lasting form of self-expression, but like all things, they’re subject to the natural processes of the body. Understanding how tattoos heal and why they fade or blur over time can help you make informed decisions about your tattoo. By following proper aftercare, choosing the right artist, and protecting your tattoo from the sun, you can keep your artwork looking fresh for years to come.

Sources

• UCSF Synapse – Why Tattoos Stay Put: https://synapse.ucsf.edu/articles/2024/05/28/why-tattoos-stay-put

• National Center for Biotechnology Information – Tattoo Ink Nanoparticles in Skin Tissue and Fibroblasts: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4464189/

• Wikipedia – Process of Tattooing: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Process_of_tattooing

• Byrdie – What Causes Tattoos to Fade? Experts Explain How to Avoid It: https://www.byrdie.com/tattoo-fade-8628678

Is Getting Tattooed on Your Period Really More Painful?

Science Says Yes

Ever wondered why that tattoo session felt way worse than usual, even though it was the same spot, same artist, and same needle? It might have everything to do with where you're at in your menstrual cycle.

Turns out, science backs up what many women have suspected for years; tattoos (and pain in general) hurt more when you're on or just before your period. But why exactly is that?

Your Hormones Are Calling the Shots

During your menstrual and premenstrual phases, estrogen levels drop sharply. Research shows lower estrogen is directly linked to increased sensitivity to pain, making those needle pricks more intense. A study published in Pain journal found women rated their pain significantly higher during menstruation and just before, compared to mid-cycle when estrogen levels are highest (PubMed).

Inflammation Isn’t Helping

Periods also come with inflammation, thanks to compounds called prostaglandins. They're what cause cramps and bloating, but also heighten your body's pain response. Increased inflammation means even mild discomfort feels amplified (ScienceDaily).

Tattoo-Specific Research: It’s Real

Studies on tattoo pain have noted women often experience higher post-tattoo pain than men, influenced by stress, bleeding, and duration. While in-session pain intensity can vary, the hormonal swings during your period can absolutely make the experience feel sharper and more uncomfortable (PMC).

Hydration Matters, Too

Fluctuations in hydration levels, common during menstruation, can further impact how you perceive pain. Being even mildly dehydrated increases pain sensitivity, turning what might have been tolerable tattoo pain into something more intense (Frontiers).

What Can You Do?

If you're planning your next tattoo and want to minimize discomfort, timing can make a huge difference:

• Schedule your tattoo appointment after your period, closer to mid-cycle.

• Stay extra hydrated—drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment.

• Shorter sessions with breaks help if your period timing can't be avoided.

Your body isn't just playing tricks, it's biology. Understanding your cycle can help you have a better, less painful tattoo experience.

Sources:

• PubMed

• ScienceDaily

• PMC

• Frontiers in Physiology

New Permanent Makeup Services Now Available with Nicole in St. Louis

Now Offering Brows, Lip Blush & Scar Revision with Nicole – St. Louis PMU

Alchemy Tattoo Collective now offers brows, lip blush, and inkless scar revision with Nicole. Natural results, custom approach, and pigment-free skin treatments in St. Louis.

We’ve got something new at Alchemy, and we think you're going to love it. Nicole is now offering permanent makeup and inkless skin revision treatments at both of our St. Louis locations. Her work is clean, thoughtful, and designed to enhance what’s already working for you.

Nicole specializes in custom brows, soft lip blush, and non-pigment scar and stretch mark revision. Her background blends technical skill with a solid understanding of skin, structure, and healing. She knows how to work with your natural features, not against them.

Brows That Don’t Need a Filter
Nicole offers two brow styles: powder and combination. Powder brows create a soft, shaded look that mimics the effect of filled-in makeup, while combo brows add subtle hair strokes at the front for a more dimensional finish. You don’t have to decide ahead of time, she’ll help you choose what works best based on your skin, brow growth, and overall goals. Expect clean shape, balance, and brows that actually fit your face.

Lip Blush, Not Lipstick
Lip blush is a subtle way to bring your natural lip tone back to life. It adds soft definition and a sheer flush of color that won’t smudge or wipe off halfway through the day. Nicole customizes each session to enhance your natural shape and tone, giving you that low-effort, well-rested look without needing to reapply anything. It’s a solid option if your lips have lost some color or shape over time and you’re ready for a little boost.

Scar and Stretch Mark Treatments That Don’t Involve Pigment or Pressure
Inkless revision uses a tattoo machine and healing serums (no ink) to smooth and soften the appearance of scars and stretch marks. It works by encouraging your skin to rebuild collagen and elastin. Results improve over time, and many clients see visible changes after just one session. If you’ve got areas that healed a little funky or textured, this could help.

Nicole Vogt - Permanent Makeup Artist in St. Louis

Why Book with Nicole?
Nicole is calm, precise, and fully focused on doing things right. She doesn’t rush appointments or recommend treatments that don’t fit. Her goal is to make you feel like the best version of yourself, just with fewer steps in the morning.

She’s now accepting new clients. If you’ve been thinking about trying permanent makeup or skin revision, this is a great time to start.

→ Book with Nicole
→ See Nicole’s Work
→ Learn More About Cosmetic Tattooing

Friday the 13th, St. Louis 2025

Coming friday, June 13th 2025

12pm-6pm

Alchemy Tattoo Collective is back with everyone's favorite blend of superstition, art, and community: Friday the 13th! Visit us at our St. Louis locations in Central West End and South City for our celebrated flash tattoo event.

walk-in day Participating Artists

Each artist has crafted soon-to-be-released exclusive flash designs available for a flat rate of $130, and offered on a first come, first served basis on Friday the 13th.

• Kayla Hilzendeger

• Lacey Donovan

• CJ Oliver

• Natalie Schneider

• Dan Buie

• Damon Hottes

Additionally, you can book your spot online in advance and come whenever works for your schedule.

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friday the 13th Tattoo Flash & pricing 👀

Make sure you are following our Instagram and Facebook for the FRESH FLASH DROPS!

The $130 pricing applies to the designs labeled $130. Adjustments may be made for larger, more complex designs, custom designs, or placements that are difficult to tattoo.

Final prices are determined by you and your artist at the time of the tattoo. If you're unsure, ask your artist before getting started.

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browse our friday the 13th flash designs of the past

Revive a design from one of our past events! Any time you find a design or inspiration, simply visit the artist’s profile page to book or find them in our online booking system.

Can’t find the artist that created your favorite design? Just ask us, or use the design for inspiration and reference to show an available artist. Our artists can create a fresh, unique version, just for you.

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get inspired by the lore & request a custom design

Custom Design Inspo: The Death Tarot Card

Numbered XIII in the Major Arcana, the Death Tarot card represents transformation and new beginnings. Like Friday the 13th, it’s often misunderstood or feared.

The Friday the 13th tattoo tradition taps into centuries-old folklore. Historically seen as unlucky due to legends tied to Norse myths, medieval tales, and biblical stories,the 13th has shifted in meaning over time. Popularized in part by the Friday the 13th horror film franchise beginning in 1980, the date became firmly rooted in modern superstition.

Tattoo culture has since reclaimed it, turning the once-feared day into an accessible, symbolic event, often marking milestones, celebrating individuality, or serving as an introduction to tattooing itself.

Explore more behind this date on sites like History.com or the Library of Congress Folklife Center and get inspired for a custom Friday the 13th tattoo.

CUSTOM DESIGN PRICING

Let your artist know the budget you have in mind for your custom piece at the time of your consultation.

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Walk-in or Schedule an Appointment

If Friday is fully booked, no worries, our artists are happy to celebrate on another day that works for you.

Visibility and Community: Pride Stories from Our Tattoo Studio

June is Pride Month

A celebration of queer identity, resilience, and visibility. At Alchemy Tattoo Collective, this month provides an opportunity to reflect deeply on how queer experiences and identities enrich the art and community fostered in our studio. Our artists and support staff shared heartfelt reflections about what Pride and their identities mean to them, as well as how these elements shape their interactions and artistry.

Coyote Grace Hasner - Tattoo Artist

Grace tells us what makes her feel like she’s doing exactly what she is meant to do:

"I’d have to say it would be the moments when you see your clients roll their shoulders back and just breathe, and when these amazing people come in and are incredibly shy at first but 30 minutes in laugh so loud it echos throughout the whole shop."

Is there a small detail in your process that means more to you than people realize?

“When a client asks for a tissue to wipe away happy tears when finding not only a tattoo artist, but a shop that truly is an advocate and liberates them, means more to me than anything.”

Heidi Williams - Tattoo Artist

Heidi describes how trust is evident during sessions:

"I can tell when someone feels safe with me when they are willing to share their stories: the good,the bad,and the ugly."

“I am always so honored to have all walks of life in my chair, sharing their moments with me, and will forever strive keep a safe energy for our LGBTQIA family.”

Damon Hottes - Tattoo Artist

Damon reflects on what visibility has meant to him,

"It’s a bit different now, but growing up there wasn’t a lot of open LGBTQ+ role models. I grew up in a small sheltered town, where there were no older (at least openly) queer or transgender folks. It was hard growing up feeling so isolated, not to mention having no one to talk about LGBTQ+ struggles or the danger/risk that comes with being a minority. I remembered when I met my first senior queer/trans couple and it blew my mind. Before then I didn’t think we got to grow up and be old and happy."

“I know how complicated my relationship with my own body can be. Keeping that in mind, having my clients be comfortable with me and my tattooing process is very important to me. I especially love being able to help others bring more love and confidence to their own body’s through my craft.”

Vampy Nguyen - Support Staff

Vampy discussed authenticity and openness as essential components of his daily interactions.

What do you notice that tells you someone feels safe with you?

"no filter/no censorship haha I encourage people to be their full authentic selves around me. people shouldn't need to mask in safe surroundings."

What do you carry from your own life into the way you work now ?

“compassion >:3 dont be a shitty person. don't let people dampen your light because they can't make theirs glow/shine”

Chelsea Holloway - Owner & Tattoo Artist

As the owner, reflecting on visibility in our space, it’s clear that creating an inclusive environment enhances our connections.

“I tend to keep my identity as bisexual out of conversations. It feels easier, safer, and more comfortable for everyone. The fear of judgement that I’m “not gay enough” or that bisexuality exists as a way of attention seeking tends to keep me quiet about it. It sounds ridiculous, but for bisexual folks, it’s a reality.

The more I hear stories that make me feel accepted for who I am, the more I understand how powerful it is to be visible.

There are so many people like me who value privacy over being seen because it feels safe. Honestly, I’m still just as terrified of being seen, but I’m showing up anyway.

I don’t need approval to exist as I am. I deserve to take up space, and I want my friends to feel like they do too.”

Tattoos and Pride

Tattooing is deeply and intimately connected to our relationships with our own bodies. It’s no wonder a tattoo shop can feel like such a safe and affirming space. We get to reclaim parts of ourselves as beautiful, and shape them into what we envision for ourselves.

When an artist helps bring your creative expression into being and is safe and affirming at the same time, it can be truly transformative.

These reflections illustrate how Pride deeply resonates in everyday interactions at Alchemy Tattoo Collective, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity, understanding, and affirmation.

We see you, and you are welcome here.

Tattoo Pricing in St. Louis: Comprehensive Guide to Costs and Factors

If you're looking for tattoo prices in St. Louis, here's a breakdown of what to expect when booking with our shop.

Tattoo Pricing in St. Louis: What You Need to Know

The cost of a tattoo in St. Louis depends on several factors including style, artist experience, and whether you're going for something minimalist or a full sleeve. Most tattoos at Alchemy start at $100. Pricing depends on size, detail, placement, and your artist’s hourly rate.

Average Tattoo Prices in St. Louis

Small tattoos usually range from $100–$300 and can be completed in one session.

Medium tattoos can be anywhere between $300-$800 and usually only require 1-2 sessions to complete.

Half sleeves typically fall between $800–$3000+ and can take 2-4+ sessions to complete..

Full sleeves can range from $2000 to $7,000+ or more, depending on complexity, color, and the number of sessions.

Full back pieces often start at $2,000 and can exceed $8,000+, especially for intricate, full-color designs requiring multiple sessions, or people with larger backs.

These estimates align with industry averages, where full sleeves and back pieces remain at the top end of the pricing spectrum, with costs ranging from $2,000 to $7,000 or more.

Factors Influencing Tattoo Costs

• Size and placement
  Larger areas and hard-to-reach spots take more time and care. Delicate areas may also require breaks or slower pacing.

• Design complexity
  A solid black shape takes less time than a full-color illustrative piece. Details like fine lines, dotwork, or realism raise the price due to the technical skill and time involved. Tattoos that include realistic portraits, layered textures, or detailed shading will usually take longer than minimalist or traditional styles. If you’re interested in a full sleeve or back piece, expect it to be completed over multiple sessions, billed by the hour.

• Color vs. Black and Gray

  Color tattoos generally take longer due to layering and blending, thus costing more than black and gray designs.

• Body Placement

  Areas that are more sensitive or difficult to tattoo, such as ribs or feet, may incur higher costs due to increased time and skill required.

• Artist experience

  More experienced or in-demand artists often have higher hourly or session rates. Apprentices or newer artists may offer lower-cost options under supervision.

• Color vs. black & grey
  Full-color designs often require more layers, which means more time. Black and grey styles tend to be quicker but still depend on shading complexity.

• Custom vs. flash
  Custom designs take longer to prepare and often cost more. Designing custom artwork can take up to double the time it takes to tattoo the design, compared to a realism or pre-designed piece. If you’re on a budget, many of our artists offer flash designs at set prices.

• Guest Artist Pricing
  If you’re booking with one of our guest artists, their rates may differ from our standard pricing. Guest artists set their own pricing based on their experience, curated portfolios, and the market they typically work in. For example, hourly rates in places like Los Angeles or Las Vegas often start at $200–$300+, while St. Louis artists typically range from $120–$250 per hour. We recommend reviewing their portfolio and reaching out for details before booking, as each guest artist runs their schedule and pricing independently.

What about tipping?

Tipping isn’t required, but it’s always appreciated—usually 15–25% of the tattoo cost, similar to hair or beauty services.

What’s included in the price?

Your price includes sterile, single-use supplies, artist setup and cleanup time, aftercare instructions, and the prep/design process. Some artists also offer free touch-ups within a set window if your tattoo heals unevenly.

Can I get a quote before booking?

Yes. For custom work, you’ll usually need a consultation. At our St. Louis tattoo shop, we offer free consultations to give you a realistic price range before booking.We also offer walk-in tattoos and pre-priced flash pieces that don’t require consults. You can check our booking page or artist portfolios for more info. Keep in mind that exact quotes can be hard to give without a design finalized. We always recommend starting with a consultation, especially for larger or custom work. This gives your artist time to understand your vision and provide a more accurate estimate.

Apprentice tattoo in progress featuring Kayla Hilzendeger, former tattoo apprentice at Alchemy, now a licensed artist.

Tips for Budgeting Your Tattoo

• Be upfront with your artist about your budget. The artist can plan their design with it in mind.

• Flash is often more affordable than custom work.

• Ask about apprentice work if you’re open to being tattooed by someone in training.

• Plan for Multiple Sessions: Larger tattoos, like full sleeves or back pieces, often require multiple sessions. Spreading the work over time can make budgeting more manageable.

  Consider Aftercare Costs: Proper aftercare is crucial for healing and maintaining your tattoo. Budget for quality aftercare products and potential touch-up sessions.

Final thoughts

A tattoo is a lifetime investment. Pricing reflects not only the time it takes to design, prepare, and complete the tattoo, but the skill, hygiene, and care behind it as well. If you’re ready to start your next piece, we’d love to help.

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Tattoo Pricing FAQS

Wondering what goes into the cost of a tattoo? You're not alone. We've gathered the most common questions we hear about pricing, booking, and what to expect, so you can feel confident and informed before you commit.

• How much does a tattoo cost in St. Louis?

  Tattoo prices vary based on size, detail, placement, and the artist’s experience. At Alchemy Tattoo Collective, our shop minimum is typically $100, and most tattoos range between $150 and $400 per hour depending on the artist. Larger or more complex designs may be quoted after a consultation.

• What’s included in the price of a tattoo?

  Your price covers custom design time, setup and sterilization of equipment, high-quality inks and supplies, and the tattooing session itself. We also provide aftercare guidance and complimentary touch-ups for most tattoos within the first few months if needed.

• Are consultations free?

  Yes, we offer free consultations so you can meet your artist, discuss your idea, get a ballpark price, and talk through placement and design. Booking a tattoo appointment may require a deposit.

• Why do some tattoos cost more than others?

  Several factors affect price:

  • Size and complexity

  • Color vs. black and grey

  • Placement on the body

  • Your artist’s experience and speed

  A small tattoo with fine line detail might take longer than a larger, bold design, depending on complexity.

• Do you charge by the hour or by the piece?

  Both. Smaller designs are often priced by the piece, while larger custom work is typically billed hourly. Your artist will explain which applies to your project at the consultation.

• Is tipping expected?

  Tipping is never required but always appreciated. A standard tip in the tattoo industry is 15–25%, based on your satisfaction with the experience.

• Do you offer apprentice tattoos?

  Yes. Our apprentices are carefully supervised and offer discounted rates. This is a great option for budget-conscious clients who still want a solid tattoo. All apprentice work is pre-approved by licensed mentors.

• Are deposits refundable?

  Deposits are non-refundable and go toward the cost of your tattoo. If you need to reschedule, we require at least 48 hours' notice to carry your deposit forward.

• How do I prepare for my tattoo appointment?

  • Eat a full meal beforehand

  • Stay hydrated

  • Avoid alcohol or blood thinners 24 hours before

  • Wear comfortable, accessible clothing

  • Bring photo ID and your payment method

• Can I get a quote without a consultation?

  For a general estimate, we recommend booking a free consultation with one of our artists.